They are well-known for being heroic when it comes to rushing into burning buildings or catching criminals on the run.
But yesterday, Inverness’s fire and police services were making sure the younger generation knew they were available to be everyday heroes, too.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland yesterday pledged their support to the Safe, Strong and Free charity which aims to teach young children how to keep themselves safe from bullying, neglect or abuse.
The Safe, Strong and Free team visited Inverness Fire Station on what’s been dubbed ‘Highland Hero Day’ to highlight to children that members of the blue light services are there to support children and instil the idea that uniformed services are there to help and can be trusted, regardless of the influence of their parents or peers.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager Antony Gardner said: “Our commitment to safety in the home is not exclusive to fire safety, it also includes personal safety so we are delighted to be backing the important work carried out by the team at Safe, Strong and Free.
“It’s important that children understand that they can trust members of a uniformed service enough to approach them about a particular issue they have. Sometimes it may be the only opportunity they have to talk about what they are experiencing.”
Police Scotland’s Inspector Ewan Henderson said: “Being able to attend days such as today helps to re-affirm a child’s opinion of uniformed services and that officers are there to provide support and keep them safe, no matter the circumstances. A child’s parents or peers may not see the police or other uniformed personnel in a positive light and the ‘Highland Hero Day’ provides a unique opportunity to see past these opinions and inspire values which may last right through to adulthood.
Chairperson of Safe, Strong and Free, Angela Ogilvie, said: “I am delighted with the fantastic support of the blue light services in promoting our ‘Highland Hero Day’ fundraising event.
“We are all working together to keep children safe and this event promotes opportunities for children throughout the Highlands to have lots of fun as they learn about staying Safe, Strong and Free with the help of our ‘heroes’ in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police.
“A big thank you from everyone at Safe, Strong and Free.”
Information about the work of Safe, Strong and Free can be found at